Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Thursday that preparations are in full swing for the first Russian-African summit scheduled to be held in Sochi at the end of October.
Speaking at a ceremony to receive credentials from newly appointed foreign ambassadors to Russia in Kremlin, Putin said that Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi will chair the summit.
He also confirmed that all African presidents, as well as leaders of major sub-regional unions and organizations have already received invitations to attend Sochi summit.
"We seek to re-activate the dialogue between Russia and Africa and bring it to a new level, as well as to maintain security and sustainable development in the Black continent," Putin said.
"We will strive to propel a dialogue between Russia and Africa to a qualitatively new level, to ensure peace and security in the region, as well as a stable development in the African continent," the Russian leader said.
The participants will discuss efforts exerted to face emerging challenges and threats.
The summit is expected to adopt a political declaration about the main fields of cooperation between Russia and African countries. It will focus on fostering economic, and cultural cooperation between Russia and African countries.
Sisi and Putin will also inaugurate an economic forum in Russia on October 23, with the participation of African and Russian officials, and representatives of major businesses.
A number of important commercial, economic and investment deals will be signed at the end of the forum.
Relations between the two countries have improved significantly since they started the regular consultations in the 2+2 format comprising the defense and foreign affairs ministers of both countries, making Egypt the only Arab country to engage in such talks with Moscow. It is worth noting that Russia adopted this format with other five other countries.
Frequent mutual visits of both countries' leaders have also reinforced bilateral relationships.
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